How to remove ticks from a bed? - briefly
Remove all sheets, blankets, and pillowcases, wash them in water at 55 °C (130 °F) or hotter, and dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; then vacuum the mattress, bed frame, and surrounding floor, and apply an appropriate acaricide or steam‑clean the mattress to eliminate any remaining parasites.
How to remove ticks from a bed? - in detail
Ticks can survive for weeks in bedding if not addressed promptly. The following procedure eliminates the parasites and prevents re‑infestation.
First, strip the bed entirely. Remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to contain any hitchhiking insects.
Second, launder the fabrics. Use hot water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) and a high‑temperature dryer cycle for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of the arthropod.
Third, treat the mattress and box‑spring. Vacuum the surfaces thoroughly, paying special attention to seams, folds, and the edges. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter and discard the bag or empty the canister outside the home.
Fourth, apply an appropriate acaricide. Choose a product labeled for indoor use on bedding, following the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Spray the solution evenly over the entire mattress, box‑spring, and any upholstered headboard. Allow the recommended dwell time before drying.
Fifth, protect the sleeping area. Install a zippered mattress encasement that fully encloses the mattress and box‑spring. Replace the protective cover after each cleaning cycle.
Sixth, monitor for recurrence. Inspect the bedding weekly for several weeks using a bright flashlight. If ticks are observed, repeat the vacuuming and acaricide steps.
Additional preventive measures:
- Keep pets treated with veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives.
- Maintain low humidity in the bedroom; ticks thrive in humid environments.
- Remove clutter and vacuum carpets regularly to reduce hidden habitats.
By following these steps systematically, the infestation will be eradicated and the risk of future tick exposure minimized.